In Men Don't Leave, Jessica Lange has to cope when all three men in her life do just that. Her happy family is shattered when her husband dies in a tragic accident, and she's left alone to raise her two boys and manage expenses. I'm a big Jessica Lange fan, and she shines once again in what she does best: showing the audience she's about to crack without cracking. When other actresses fly off with their emotions, Jessica keeps hers contained with glistening eyes that show her turmoil.
In addition to another solid Jessica Lange performance, you'll be treated to two other benefits if you watch this movie. Men Don't Leave has an interesting, compelling, realistic story, and a wonderful supporting cast. Jessica's sons are Chris O'Donnell and Charlie Korsmo in their film debuts, and they both show different struggles as they flounder in their new life without a father. Charlie gets into trouble, and Chris tries his hand at being the man of the house with a young, pretty neighbor, Joan Cusack. Both boys show a remarkable confidence in front of the camera for their first film, and Chris shows acting talents I've never seen in his other movies.
Joan Cusack is sweet and sensitive, and it's clear she's trying to help with every line she delivers. Kathy Bates joins the cast as Jessica Lange's boss, and she's strong, magnetic, pretty, and energetic without becoming a caricature. Arliss Howard, a suitor, brings sensitivity to his role, giving the audience hope that there just might be one more nice guy out there in the world.
It's pretty obvious I recommend this movie. With great performances and a realistic slice-of-life story that doesn't feel forced, symbolic, or dated, this movie will continue to stand the test of time.
